Collectors directed to take special precautions from October 27 to 29
Raipur, October 26, 2026/ The Chhattisgarh government has stepped up preparedness in view of the possibility of Cyclone Arnab affecting the state. A high-level meeting was held at Mantralaya Mahanadi Bhawan, where collectors of all districts were directed to remain on alert and ensure that all necessary precautionary measures are in place.
The meeting, chaired by Additional Chief Secretary Shri Manoj Kumar Pingua, reviewed preparedness for October 27 to 29 in view of the possible impact of the cyclone. Collectors from all districts and senior officials from various departments participated through video conferencing.
Focus on zero casualties and comprehensive safety measures
The Additional Chief Secretary has directed officials to ensure full preparedness to deal with the possible impact of the cyclone and take weather warnings seriously. The primary focus is on ensuring zero casualties.
Officials have been directed to exercise particular caution in the southern Bastar region, especially in Bijapur, Sukma, Dantewada, Bastar and Narayanpur districts, where strong winds are likely. Relief camps are to remain operational round the clock, with all essential facilities available. The Health Secretary has been directed to ensure uninterrupted medical services. Officials have also been asked to prepare lists of pregnant women and make arrangements for their safe evacuation, if required.
The Agriculture Department has been directed to issue detailed advisories to farmers and take measures to minimise potential damage to crops and livestock. Authorities have also been asked to assess local conditions and ensure appropriate safety arrangements for schoolchildren and young children attending anganwadi centres. Teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) have been directed to remain fully prepared at designated locations.
Departments directed to ensure uninterrupted essential services
Secretary of the Revenue and Disaster Management Department Smt. Shammi Abidi said officials should assess the potential risk of damage to kutcha houses due to strong winds and ensure the timely evacuation of people from vulnerable areas to safer locations. The electricity department has been directed to remain prepared to deal with damage caused by falling power poles. Alternative arrangements are also being put in place to minimise disruptions to telecommunications services. Officials have been asked to ensure that fallen trees are removed promptly to prevent road blockages and keep traffic moving smoothly. The condition of hoardings and other potentially unsafe structures is also to be assessed, and necessary precautions taken.
Secretary of the Health and Family Welfare Department Shri Amit Kataria, along with senior officials from the NDRF, SDRF, Revenue and Disaster Management Department, and Home Department, attended the meeting. The state government has directed all departments to work in close coordination and remain fully prepared to respond to any emergency.
